2025 Volvo XC40

Other brands have caught up, but Volvo maintains its deserved reputation for safety innovation and quality fit and finish. Volvos also stand out for its attractive exterior styling and for having some of the nicest interiors in the industry, with especially comfortable seats. The brand’s XC line of SUVs range from compact and two-row to midsized and three-row. Volvo also sells sedans and station wagons, along with several EVs, ranging from small to large. Most of Volvo’s new cars scored average or below-average in our reliability rankings, and the infotainment systems on many models are less intuitive than what you’ll find in competitors’ cars. Our testers have also found that Volvos aren’t great at absorbing bumps, and have average fuel economy. Among used Volvos, some models have proven to be reliable enough to earn our recommendation.

The Volvo XC40 joins the growing niche of small luxury SUVs. The T5 trim we tested comes standard with AWD and a 248-hp turbocharged four-cylinder engine that packs a decent punch. Front-wheel-drive T4 versions have a 187-hp turbo engine. Like other Volvos, the ride is stiff, and the engine has a coarse growl. Worse, the controls, such as the electronic gear selector and infotainment system, are unintuitive and frustrating to operate. Handling is mundane but secure. The cabin is nicely furnished and the front seats are very comfortable. Automatic emergency braking is standard. Other available features include rear cross-traffic alert with braking assist, 360-degree camera, adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist. Volvo's Pilot Assist system offers a suite of advanced driver assistance features. For 2024, the XC40 is only available with all-wheel-drive and the less powerful B4 engine was dropped.